Ironwort

Other Names : ironwort, mountain tea, shepherd's tea

Benefits and uses of Sideritis are

Very popular in Greece, Albania, Bulgaria and Macedonia, the plant is used as a herb either for the preparation of tisanes, or for its aromatic properties in local cuisines. The tisane is commonly prepared by decoction, by boiling the stems, leaves and flowers in a pot of water, then often serving with honey and lemon.

• Ironwort has been traditionally used to aid digestion, strengthen the immune system and suppress common cold, the flu and other viruses, allergies and shortness of breath, sinus congestion, even pain and mild anxiety.

Scientists have suggested that the popular pronouncement of ironwort as panacea may have some basis in fact. Studies indicate a positive effect on many common ailments. Ironwort is known scientifically to be anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant. Active elements include diterpenoids, flavonoids, and its essential oils. Significant research has been done on ironwort confirming its popular use to prevent colds, flu, and allergies. Most of this research has taken place in universities in the Netherlands and in Greece, Turkey, Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Albania, where the plant is indigenous.

• Also, modern tests have indicated that the tisane helps in the prevention of osteoporosis, while its anti-oxidant properties may aid in the prevention of cancer.